WASHINGTON (May 16, 2013) – The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee today approved the nomination of Gina McCarthy to head the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, sending her nomination for consideration to the full Senate.

Following is a statement from Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council about the Senate committee’s vote:

“Now it’s time for the full Senate to confirm Gina McCarthy to lead the EPA. She’s answered more than 1,000 questions from committee Democrats and Republicans. She’s demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting our air, water, land and health. And no one is better qualified to lead this vital agency at a time of mounting climate crisis.

“Gina McCarthy listens well, shoots straight and has what it takes to build consensus and find solutions. We can expect her to protect our environment and our health. And Americans everywhere should expect the Senate to approve her nomination without further political gamesmanship, so she can get that job done for us all."

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 2 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.